The Seventeenth - Gaudete - Rejoice!
The Third Sunday in Advent is a pause in the season of waiting to one of rejoicing, awaiting the coming of the Lord. Gaudete being latin for rejoice, which is why we light a rose coloured candle.
There are a few versions of the famous carol dating from the 16th Century here, from Erasure, the King Singers and Steeleye Span. Which is your favourite?
| Latin | English |
|---|---|
| Gaudete, gaudete! Christus est natus Ex Maria virgine, gaudete! |
Rejoice, rejoice! |
| Tempus adest gratiæ Hoc quod optabamus, Carmina lætitiæ Devote reddamus. |
The time of grace has come— What we have wished for; Songs of joy Let us give back faithfully. |
| Deus homo factus est Natura mirante, Mundus renovatus est A Christo regnante. |
God has become man, With nature marvelling, The world has been renewed By the reigning Christ. |
| Ezechielis porta Clausa pertransitur, Unde lux est orta Salus invenitur. |
The closed gate of Ezekiel Is passed through, Whence the light is risen; Salvation has been found. |
| Ergo nostra contio Psallat iam in lustro; Benedicat Domino: Salus Regi nostro. |
Therefore, let our assembly Now sing in brightness Let it bless the Lord: Greetings to our King. |